I would prefer a classic styled rifle, however it will depend what it is to be used for. I have a kevlar stocked, stainless heavy barrelled marlin 17HMR. This firearm gets chucked in the ute (not roughly of course) for around the farm, my deer rifles however that are well looked after are "classic" in stlye and scoped with the best that I can afford. The rifle you choose often has a geat deal to say about how youn hunt, and your general outlook, as one might think of a pair of shoes.

Cheers

Mcleish